God Memories by Boyd Bailey
“I remember the days of long ago; I mediate on all your works and consider what your hands have done”. Psalm 143:5
God memories help us to remember what is really important in life. The Lord’s wonderful works come in a variety of expressions. For example, we may have seen His hand at work during our conversion experience while attending church or an old fashioned revival meeting. Or, maybe His answer to prayer arrested our hearts during a contemplative conversation with Christ along a quiet creek bed.
Our meditation on the Almighty’s activities activates our heart with faith and hope. It is when we ruminate on His righteous acts that we tend to feel secure and certain. When our own work leads us to wander, we can still wonder at the works of His hands. He can work through our works in spite of our works. A mind always on the move needs the maintenance of God’s memories to meditate and muse on His encouraging acts.
“They refused to listen and failed to remember the miracles you performed among them. They became stiff-necked and in their rebellion appointed a leader in order to return to their slavery. But you are a forgiving God, gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love. Therefore you did not desert them” (Nehemiah 9:17).
Therefore, look through your minds eye and see in hindsight how heaven has directed your days. His Holy Spirit may have led you to say no to one career opportunity because He had a more significant option in mind. The Lord may have closed one door of higher education, and opened another you would not have scripted, but it was precisely how you met your life mate.
You saw His works in a little baby He may have blessed you with, to nurture and love. Or it may be the memory of being with a grandparent, and experiencing God’s canopy of creation together. It was here you heard the wisdom of the Lord, and felt unconditional love and acceptance. Use these God memories to galvanize your faith, and to make you more like your memory maker Jesus.
“So I will always remind you of these things, even though you know them and are firmly established in the truth you now have. I think it is right to refresh your memory…” (2Peter 1:12-13a).
What God memories would I do well to reflect on with gratitude and hope?
Related Readings: Psalm 42:4; Ecclesiastes 12:1; Isaiah 46:9; Ephesians 2:12
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Activity Versus Results
11-29-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Activity Versus Results
“A wise man who built his house on the rock… A foolish man who built his house on sand”. Matthew 24:b, 26b
Activity can become competition to the best results, because sincere but inappropriate actions can lead to the wrong outcomes. It is not important to be busy in a lot of things, but to be focused on a few essentials for success. On the surface of a busy life it can look like good things are being accomplished, but below the genuine intentions is the sandy foundation of unacceptable results. Less is more when measuring right results.
At work, for example, be on guard against reams of information that lack interpretation and analysis. Too much data can become a deterrent to making a decision and moving forward. Also, look out for those who are blindly busy, but are going nowhere fast. The busiest people may be the most unproductive people, because there is no time for evaluation and improvement. Diligence that partners with the right strategy and execution leverages the most effective results. Actions aligned with the best overall plan produce long-term sustainability; so build on the rock of right results.
“Every way of a man is right in his own eyes, But the LORD weighs the heart. To do righteousness and justice is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice” (Proverbs 21:2-3, NKJV).
Furthermore, take the time to evaluate your life and work to God’s game plan. An ongoing audit of your actions will help you reap right results. Behaviors like honesty, humility and accountability will lead to the fruitful results of respect, trust and wisdom. You are saved by grace, but you keep your job by results. Ask your boss or board what results they want to see from you and your team, and then execute accordingly. Give a bi-weekly account of specific measurements, so adjustments can be made as is necessary.
You build on the solid rock of results when you put into practice a smart and prayed over plan that invites accountability. Work hard, but examine your actions under the authority of God and man. Wise activities lead to a life and work that, by God’s grace, withstand the winds of worry and the storms of insecurity. Let God and others guide you, and you will go a long way with the substance of rock solid results.
“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed” (Proverbs 15:22).
Who can I invite into my life, and ask to evaluate the activities I need to cease, the ones I need to continue and the new ones I need to start?
Related Readings: Job 32:1; Proverbs 12:15; Acts 15:38; 1 Corinthians 3:6; 4:6
Activity Versus Results
“A wise man who built his house on the rock… A foolish man who built his house on sand”. Matthew 24:b, 26b
Activity can become competition to the best results, because sincere but inappropriate actions can lead to the wrong outcomes. It is not important to be busy in a lot of things, but to be focused on a few essentials for success. On the surface of a busy life it can look like good things are being accomplished, but below the genuine intentions is the sandy foundation of unacceptable results. Less is more when measuring right results.
At work, for example, be on guard against reams of information that lack interpretation and analysis. Too much data can become a deterrent to making a decision and moving forward. Also, look out for those who are blindly busy, but are going nowhere fast. The busiest people may be the most unproductive people, because there is no time for evaluation and improvement. Diligence that partners with the right strategy and execution leverages the most effective results. Actions aligned with the best overall plan produce long-term sustainability; so build on the rock of right results.
“Every way of a man is right in his own eyes, But the LORD weighs the heart. To do righteousness and justice is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice” (Proverbs 21:2-3, NKJV).
Furthermore, take the time to evaluate your life and work to God’s game plan. An ongoing audit of your actions will help you reap right results. Behaviors like honesty, humility and accountability will lead to the fruitful results of respect, trust and wisdom. You are saved by grace, but you keep your job by results. Ask your boss or board what results they want to see from you and your team, and then execute accordingly. Give a bi-weekly account of specific measurements, so adjustments can be made as is necessary.
You build on the solid rock of results when you put into practice a smart and prayed over plan that invites accountability. Work hard, but examine your actions under the authority of God and man. Wise activities lead to a life and work that, by God’s grace, withstand the winds of worry and the storms of insecurity. Let God and others guide you, and you will go a long way with the substance of rock solid results.
“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed” (Proverbs 15:22).
Who can I invite into my life, and ask to evaluate the activities I need to cease, the ones I need to continue and the new ones I need to start?
Related Readings: Job 32:1; Proverbs 12:15; Acts 15:38; 1 Corinthians 3:6; 4:6
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Extend Kindness
Extend Kindness by Boyd Bailey
“‘Don’t be afraid,’ David said to him, ‘for I will surely show you kindness for the sake of your father Jonathan. I will restore to you all the land that belonged to your grandfather Saul, and you will always eat at my table.’” 2 Samuel 9:7
Kindness is a “killer application” for the Christian. It is “killer” in the good sense of the word. Kindness kills fear and replaces it with hope. It kills insecurity and replaces it with security. It kills rejection and replaces it with acceptance. It kills pride and replaces it with humility. Kindness kills the bad so that the good can have room to grow. Like the effect of a powerful herbicide on unwanted weeds, kindness cuts to the root of sin and injects it with grace and love.
Indeed, the kindness you extend to others springs from a variety of motivations. As a follower of Jesus, what compels you the most is the gargantuan kindness that He has bestowed on you. Undeserving, you were captured by the kindness of God. He captured your mind and in the process flooded it with kind thoughts toward others, even your adversaries. He captured your mouth and filled it with kind words of affirmation and encouragement, extending to those thirsting for verbal kindness. He captured your behavior and converted it to be others centered, so now you are guilty of random acts of kindness.
Everything about you has the potential to exude kindness, because God is and has been kind to you. You can count on the kindness of God leading you and others to repentance. Kill others with kindness, and watch God bring them alive. It is the uncanny and counterintuitive nature of kindness. We have the capacity to be kind, because we have received His mercy as a “gift in kind.”
Gratitude to God for His kindness is a sterling reason for us to extend kindness to others. However, gratitude also results from our horizontal relationships. You feel compelled to be kind to a family member or a friend, because of the kindness they extended to your child or your spouse. You can’t help it. Kindness and gratitude are first cousins. When you are grateful, you search for ways to extend kindness to people. It may be a graduation gift, your presence at a wedding, or a handwritten thank-you note. You want to support those who support you and those whom you love.
Kindness has this powerful effect on people: It makes them care. It is the gift that keeps on giving. It seems you cannot pay forward enough with kindness. No one has ever complained of receiving too much kindness. You cannot overdose anyone on kindness. On the contrary, it is healing and wholesome. Kindness is a picture of Christ. It is not only godly, it is God-like. Therefore, diffuse the rumblings of harsh words and replace them with kind ones.
Otherwise, you may say the right words but in an unkind way and defeat your purpose of being open and honest. People cannot hear what you say if how you say it is unkind. A kind delivery of hard words has a much higher probability of acceptance. Kindness comes from a grateful and prayerful heart that is focused on Christ. You cannot help but be kind when you are captured by divine kindness. Extend the quality of kindness, which has been extended to you. For Christ’s sake, we can be kind to one another. The kindness of God invites an extended stay. This is the kind of kindness we all desire and deserve in Him.
“‘Don’t be afraid,’ David said to him, ‘for I will surely show you kindness for the sake of your father Jonathan. I will restore to you all the land that belonged to your grandfather Saul, and you will always eat at my table.’” 2 Samuel 9:7
Kindness is a “killer application” for the Christian. It is “killer” in the good sense of the word. Kindness kills fear and replaces it with hope. It kills insecurity and replaces it with security. It kills rejection and replaces it with acceptance. It kills pride and replaces it with humility. Kindness kills the bad so that the good can have room to grow. Like the effect of a powerful herbicide on unwanted weeds, kindness cuts to the root of sin and injects it with grace and love.
Indeed, the kindness you extend to others springs from a variety of motivations. As a follower of Jesus, what compels you the most is the gargantuan kindness that He has bestowed on you. Undeserving, you were captured by the kindness of God. He captured your mind and in the process flooded it with kind thoughts toward others, even your adversaries. He captured your mouth and filled it with kind words of affirmation and encouragement, extending to those thirsting for verbal kindness. He captured your behavior and converted it to be others centered, so now you are guilty of random acts of kindness.
Everything about you has the potential to exude kindness, because God is and has been kind to you. You can count on the kindness of God leading you and others to repentance. Kill others with kindness, and watch God bring them alive. It is the uncanny and counterintuitive nature of kindness. We have the capacity to be kind, because we have received His mercy as a “gift in kind.”
Gratitude to God for His kindness is a sterling reason for us to extend kindness to others. However, gratitude also results from our horizontal relationships. You feel compelled to be kind to a family member or a friend, because of the kindness they extended to your child or your spouse. You can’t help it. Kindness and gratitude are first cousins. When you are grateful, you search for ways to extend kindness to people. It may be a graduation gift, your presence at a wedding, or a handwritten thank-you note. You want to support those who support you and those whom you love.
Kindness has this powerful effect on people: It makes them care. It is the gift that keeps on giving. It seems you cannot pay forward enough with kindness. No one has ever complained of receiving too much kindness. You cannot overdose anyone on kindness. On the contrary, it is healing and wholesome. Kindness is a picture of Christ. It is not only godly, it is God-like. Therefore, diffuse the rumblings of harsh words and replace them with kind ones.
Otherwise, you may say the right words but in an unkind way and defeat your purpose of being open and honest. People cannot hear what you say if how you say it is unkind. A kind delivery of hard words has a much higher probability of acceptance. Kindness comes from a grateful and prayerful heart that is focused on Christ. You cannot help but be kind when you are captured by divine kindness. Extend the quality of kindness, which has been extended to you. For Christ’s sake, we can be kind to one another. The kindness of God invites an extended stay. This is the kind of kindness we all desire and deserve in Him.
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Grateful Praise
Grateful Praise by Boyd Bailey
“Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord. Psalm 150:6
‘Praise the Lord’ is not just a celebration of gratitude to God, and reverent worship of our King, it is also a command. Jesus directs us to worship our Heavenly Father in ‘spirit and in truth’ (John 4:23-24). The pinnacle of praise found in this last Psalm is an exhortation to praise Him in His sanctuary. It is with music, instruments, dancing, spiritual songs and hymns that we praise Him.
The church’s chorus of praise to Christ rises high above to the courts of heaven. In reverence and thanksgiving we praise Him for His mighty acts: His creation for its beauty and majesty, His redemption for its forgiveness and freedom, and His holiness for its purity and power. Praise to the Lord reveals the Lord.
“Stand every morning to thank and praise the LORD, and likewise at evening” (1 Chronicles 23:30).
You praise Him for His glory, but in the process you receive the benefit of His blessings. Praise solicits the blessing of His security and peace. It is in the act of adoration of His character that you are comforted by His care and compassion. Praise produces peace that flows from a prayerful and sincere heart for God.
There is a calm confidence that comes from crying out to Christ in praise and worship. It is the battle cry for believers as they engage the enemy in everyday life. Just as the Lord instructed His children to praise Him in preparation for and during battle, so you are wise to apply the weapon of praise as you encounter the world, the flesh and the devil. Praising the Lord is your pronouncement of His sovereign security in your Savior Jesus. Praise Him while you have breath, and you will bring glory to God.
“After consulting the people, Jehoshaphat appointed men to sing to the LORD and to praise him for the splendor of his holiness as they went out at the head of the army, saying: “Give thanks to the LORD, for his love endures forever.” (2 Chronicles 20:21).
Grateful praise to God gets your heart in the right mood and your mind confident in Christ. A transaction of trust takes place when you take time to praise and thank the Lord. Make it your holy agenda to worship your Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ, with a grateful heart and His work of grace will transform you into His likeness. Grateful praise brings glory to God and genuine joy to His children. Praise Him and so will other needy men.
“The LORD is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation. He is my God, and I will praise him, my father's God, and I will exalt him” (Exodus 15:5).
What challenge am I encountering that invites me to aggressively praise the Lord?
Related Readings: Deuteronomy 32:3; Ezra 3:10-11; Psalm 40:3; 103:1-2
“Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord. Psalm 150:6
‘Praise the Lord’ is not just a celebration of gratitude to God, and reverent worship of our King, it is also a command. Jesus directs us to worship our Heavenly Father in ‘spirit and in truth’ (John 4:23-24). The pinnacle of praise found in this last Psalm is an exhortation to praise Him in His sanctuary. It is with music, instruments, dancing, spiritual songs and hymns that we praise Him.
The church’s chorus of praise to Christ rises high above to the courts of heaven. In reverence and thanksgiving we praise Him for His mighty acts: His creation for its beauty and majesty, His redemption for its forgiveness and freedom, and His holiness for its purity and power. Praise to the Lord reveals the Lord.
“Stand every morning to thank and praise the LORD, and likewise at evening” (1 Chronicles 23:30).
You praise Him for His glory, but in the process you receive the benefit of His blessings. Praise solicits the blessing of His security and peace. It is in the act of adoration of His character that you are comforted by His care and compassion. Praise produces peace that flows from a prayerful and sincere heart for God.
There is a calm confidence that comes from crying out to Christ in praise and worship. It is the battle cry for believers as they engage the enemy in everyday life. Just as the Lord instructed His children to praise Him in preparation for and during battle, so you are wise to apply the weapon of praise as you encounter the world, the flesh and the devil. Praising the Lord is your pronouncement of His sovereign security in your Savior Jesus. Praise Him while you have breath, and you will bring glory to God.
“After consulting the people, Jehoshaphat appointed men to sing to the LORD and to praise him for the splendor of his holiness as they went out at the head of the army, saying: “Give thanks to the LORD, for his love endures forever.” (2 Chronicles 20:21).
Grateful praise to God gets your heart in the right mood and your mind confident in Christ. A transaction of trust takes place when you take time to praise and thank the Lord. Make it your holy agenda to worship your Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ, with a grateful heart and His work of grace will transform you into His likeness. Grateful praise brings glory to God and genuine joy to His children. Praise Him and so will other needy men.
“The LORD is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation. He is my God, and I will praise him, my father's God, and I will exalt him” (Exodus 15:5).
What challenge am I encountering that invites me to aggressively praise the Lord?
Related Readings: Deuteronomy 32:3; Ezra 3:10-11; Psalm 40:3; 103:1-2
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Righteous Rebuke
Righteous Rebuke by Boyd Bailey
“Let a righteous man strike me—it is a kindness; let him rebuke me—it is oil on my head. My head will not refuse it.” Psalm 141:5
A righteous rebuke wins the respect of the teachable and trusting. It is seen as an act of love and concern. We all need people in our lives who challenge us with truth. Bold messengers motivated by kindness and correction make us more effective leaders, spouses, parents, friends and followers of Jesus. The unrighteous smile upon us with cruel flattery; while the righteous do not rest until words of admonition are offered.
We invite instruction from those with integrity because we trust their intentions. Fools resent reproof, but the wise profit from its sometimes stinging sensation. A righteous rebuke is sweet to the soul, like pleasant perfume it refreshes and renews. It is a loving act. Immature gossips talk about others; only mature friends talk directly to others.
“It is better to heed the rebuke of a wise person than to listen to the song of fools” (Ecclesiastes 7:5).
So, listen to those who want to love you through tumultuous times. It is better to have two people around who tell you the truth, than ten who tickle your pride and enlarge your ego. Take the time to listen to godly counsel and then act accordingly. Gracious men and women do not grow weary of candid friends, rather they thank God for them.
Your spouse sees things you don’t, so pay attention and act. Your children care enough to come with their complaints, so lovingly listen to them. The constructive feedback from friends is wise, so admit where you were wrong. At work, serve your team by listening to and implementing their excellent ideas. Survey your customers and then adjust toward their needs. Wise are leaders who see others as the Lord’s instrument of instruction.
“Do not rebuke mockers or they will hate you; rebuke the wise and they will love you” (Proverbs 9:8).
Above all, it is Almighty God’s loving discipline and righteous rebuke that leads to wise living. So gladly repent when you feel a twinge of conviction from the Holy Spirit. Like a child who respects the flames of a fireplace by backing away, so wise and humble is the child of God who steps back from being blistered by sin. A rebuke followed by earnest repentance leads to the sweetest lasting fellowship with Jesus and trusted friends.
“Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest, and repent”
(Revelation 3:19).
Who do I need to invite into my life as a candid and trusted advisor?
Related Readings: 2 Samuel 12:1-14; Psalm 39:11; Proverbs 17:10; Mark 16:14
“Let a righteous man strike me—it is a kindness; let him rebuke me—it is oil on my head. My head will not refuse it.” Psalm 141:5
A righteous rebuke wins the respect of the teachable and trusting. It is seen as an act of love and concern. We all need people in our lives who challenge us with truth. Bold messengers motivated by kindness and correction make us more effective leaders, spouses, parents, friends and followers of Jesus. The unrighteous smile upon us with cruel flattery; while the righteous do not rest until words of admonition are offered.
We invite instruction from those with integrity because we trust their intentions. Fools resent reproof, but the wise profit from its sometimes stinging sensation. A righteous rebuke is sweet to the soul, like pleasant perfume it refreshes and renews. It is a loving act. Immature gossips talk about others; only mature friends talk directly to others.
“It is better to heed the rebuke of a wise person than to listen to the song of fools” (Ecclesiastes 7:5).
So, listen to those who want to love you through tumultuous times. It is better to have two people around who tell you the truth, than ten who tickle your pride and enlarge your ego. Take the time to listen to godly counsel and then act accordingly. Gracious men and women do not grow weary of candid friends, rather they thank God for them.
Your spouse sees things you don’t, so pay attention and act. Your children care enough to come with their complaints, so lovingly listen to them. The constructive feedback from friends is wise, so admit where you were wrong. At work, serve your team by listening to and implementing their excellent ideas. Survey your customers and then adjust toward their needs. Wise are leaders who see others as the Lord’s instrument of instruction.
“Do not rebuke mockers or they will hate you; rebuke the wise and they will love you” (Proverbs 9:8).
Above all, it is Almighty God’s loving discipline and righteous rebuke that leads to wise living. So gladly repent when you feel a twinge of conviction from the Holy Spirit. Like a child who respects the flames of a fireplace by backing away, so wise and humble is the child of God who steps back from being blistered by sin. A rebuke followed by earnest repentance leads to the sweetest lasting fellowship with Jesus and trusted friends.
“Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest, and repent”
(Revelation 3:19).
Who do I need to invite into my life as a candid and trusted advisor?
Related Readings: 2 Samuel 12:1-14; Psalm 39:11; Proverbs 17:10; Mark 16:14
Friday, November 18, 2011
Poisonous Words
11-18-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Poisonous Words
“They make their tongues as sharp as a serpent’s; the poison of vipers is on their lips.” Psalm 140:3
Poisonous words come from a proud heart. In our original state of sin, Satan, the old serpent, infected us with the venom of injurious words. We have to watch what we say, or we may regret what we say. A person in their anger tends to say what their parents said in their anger. It is a vicious cycle of cynicism that only Christ can break.
Instead of lashing out with language that stings or is even slanderous, there needs to be a cooling down time for calm and clear thinking. Frustration tends to feed judgmental behavior. When our throat is dry and our blood pressure is up, it is not the best time to speak, because poisonous words pronounce judgments driven by anger and emotion.
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. The tongue of the wise adorns knowledge, but the mouth of the fool gushes folly” (Proverbs 15:1-2)
If you have been bitten by bitter words, then apply the balm of first bowing down to Christ. Jesus has just what the wounded soul and hurting heart needs. The Holy Spirit helps you discern how you can become better, and He gives you the patience and humility on when to wait, or when to confront. Victims of poisonous words need the serum of their Savior’s love and forgiveness. When applied liberally and regularly it allows you to handle harsh words with an understanding and non-defensive attitude.
Followers of Jesus are men and women of ‘no reputation’. It is God who gets the glory and grants a good name. So, go to the Lord when your pride has been punctured by poisonous words, and ask Him for faith to forgive and grace to extend pleasant words. Don’t stew when you have been stung by slander; rather apply the ointment of God’s grace.
Moreover, pleasant words work out the hurt and replace it with hope. Words like, “I love you, I believe in you, how can I help, how can I pray for you?” bring out the best in those in need of soul nourishment. Emotions venture back out in vulnerability within a safe environment of encouragement. Offer often pleasant words that feed hungry hearts.
“Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones” (Proverbs 16:24).
What are some pleasant words like, ‘How can I help?’ that I can apply to a wounded relationship?
Related Readings: Proverbs 12:25; 15:4; Zechariah 1:13; Acts 20:2; 1 Peter 5:12
Poisonous Words
“They make their tongues as sharp as a serpent’s; the poison of vipers is on their lips.” Psalm 140:3
Poisonous words come from a proud heart. In our original state of sin, Satan, the old serpent, infected us with the venom of injurious words. We have to watch what we say, or we may regret what we say. A person in their anger tends to say what their parents said in their anger. It is a vicious cycle of cynicism that only Christ can break.
Instead of lashing out with language that stings or is even slanderous, there needs to be a cooling down time for calm and clear thinking. Frustration tends to feed judgmental behavior. When our throat is dry and our blood pressure is up, it is not the best time to speak, because poisonous words pronounce judgments driven by anger and emotion.
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. The tongue of the wise adorns knowledge, but the mouth of the fool gushes folly” (Proverbs 15:1-2)
If you have been bitten by bitter words, then apply the balm of first bowing down to Christ. Jesus has just what the wounded soul and hurting heart needs. The Holy Spirit helps you discern how you can become better, and He gives you the patience and humility on when to wait, or when to confront. Victims of poisonous words need the serum of their Savior’s love and forgiveness. When applied liberally and regularly it allows you to handle harsh words with an understanding and non-defensive attitude.
Followers of Jesus are men and women of ‘no reputation’. It is God who gets the glory and grants a good name. So, go to the Lord when your pride has been punctured by poisonous words, and ask Him for faith to forgive and grace to extend pleasant words. Don’t stew when you have been stung by slander; rather apply the ointment of God’s grace.
Moreover, pleasant words work out the hurt and replace it with hope. Words like, “I love you, I believe in you, how can I help, how can I pray for you?” bring out the best in those in need of soul nourishment. Emotions venture back out in vulnerability within a safe environment of encouragement. Offer often pleasant words that feed hungry hearts.
“Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones” (Proverbs 16:24).
What are some pleasant words like, ‘How can I help?’ that I can apply to a wounded relationship?
Related Readings: Proverbs 12:25; 15:4; Zechariah 1:13; Acts 20:2; 1 Peter 5:12
Thursday, November 17, 2011
God Knows
11-17-2011 by Boyd Bailey
God Knows
“O Lord, you have searched me and you know me”. Psalm 139:1
God knows everything about us. He knows our dreams, fears and failures. He knows our noble thoughts, and He knows our foolish ones. He knows, but He knows with an eye toward eternity. His motive for the use of this exhaustive information is intimacy with His creation. Indeed, His infinite knowledge is an invitation to know Him.
He understands our nature and character way beyond our comprehension. He searches the soul for our sakes, not His, for He already knows. We do much better when we sense our Savior is watching. So, our first step in accountability is to daily ask the Almighty to search and diagnose our heart. His sensitive searchlight helps us to see our motives and methods from His perspective.
“May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer” (Psalm 19:14).
God knows you need a job, but He wants you to persevere in the process of prayerful networking. God knows you need a spouse, but He wants you to hold high your standards of conduct and character. God knows you need a house, clothes or a car, but He wants your faith focus to stay on Jesus and not stuff. God knows your every want, need and desire, so ask Him to embed His wishes into your wants.
Through prayer, fasting and godly counsel, invite the Holy Spirit to align your expectations with an eternal agenda. You trust in the Lord even when you are unable to completely comprehend His understanding, because He is God. But in time He reveals just what you need to know. You know that God knows, and that’s all you have to know.
“So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Matthew 6:31-33).
You can rest in the assurance that the Lord will meet your needs, maybe not your wants, and He knows what’s best. Like a parent’s love for a child, your heavenly Father loves you in spite of your imperfections. When He sees Jesus as your Savior and Lord, He sees the perfection of His son. He knows this is what you need most, for Christ is all you need.
“God, who knows the heart, showed that He accepted them by giving the Holy Spirit to them, just as He did to us” (Acts 15:8).
How does it make me feel to know that God knows everything about me, yet loves and accepts me unconditionally?
Related Readings: 1 Samuel 2:3; Psalms 44:21; 1 Corinthians 2:11; Philippians 4:10-13
God Knows
“O Lord, you have searched me and you know me”. Psalm 139:1
God knows everything about us. He knows our dreams, fears and failures. He knows our noble thoughts, and He knows our foolish ones. He knows, but He knows with an eye toward eternity. His motive for the use of this exhaustive information is intimacy with His creation. Indeed, His infinite knowledge is an invitation to know Him.
He understands our nature and character way beyond our comprehension. He searches the soul for our sakes, not His, for He already knows. We do much better when we sense our Savior is watching. So, our first step in accountability is to daily ask the Almighty to search and diagnose our heart. His sensitive searchlight helps us to see our motives and methods from His perspective.
“May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer” (Psalm 19:14).
God knows you need a job, but He wants you to persevere in the process of prayerful networking. God knows you need a spouse, but He wants you to hold high your standards of conduct and character. God knows you need a house, clothes or a car, but He wants your faith focus to stay on Jesus and not stuff. God knows your every want, need and desire, so ask Him to embed His wishes into your wants.
Through prayer, fasting and godly counsel, invite the Holy Spirit to align your expectations with an eternal agenda. You trust in the Lord even when you are unable to completely comprehend His understanding, because He is God. But in time He reveals just what you need to know. You know that God knows, and that’s all you have to know.
“So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Matthew 6:31-33).
You can rest in the assurance that the Lord will meet your needs, maybe not your wants, and He knows what’s best. Like a parent’s love for a child, your heavenly Father loves you in spite of your imperfections. When He sees Jesus as your Savior and Lord, He sees the perfection of His son. He knows this is what you need most, for Christ is all you need.
“God, who knows the heart, showed that He accepted them by giving the Holy Spirit to them, just as He did to us” (Acts 15:8).
How does it make me feel to know that God knows everything about me, yet loves and accepts me unconditionally?
Related Readings: 1 Samuel 2:3; Psalms 44:21; 1 Corinthians 2:11; Philippians 4:10-13
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Everyday Relationship
11-16-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Everyday Relationship
"I am the good shepherd; I know My sheep and My sheep know Me— just as the Father knows Me and I know the Father—and I lay down My life for the sheep.” (John 10:14, 15 NIV)
Jesus desires an everyday relationship with those He has given eternal life. Like a sensitive shepherd individually cares for his sheep, so Christ cares for His flock of followers. Daily a wise sheep herder looks to keep the sheep from harm and leads them into green pastures. Similarly, the Lord watches out each day for the interests of His children whom He protects and provides.
If we wander away from the influence of our Great Shepherd Jesus, we risk exposure to evil elements. However, as we remain in the shadow of His long supportive staff, we benefit from His benevolence and His capacity for good. Each day we have the opportunity to engage eternal resources for His Kingdom purposes. So, pray that everyday with Jesus is sweeter than the day before.
"Blessed are those who listen to me, watching daily at my doors, waiting at my doorway" (Proverbs 8:34).
Listen for the Lord’s voice and He will speak truth that you can treasure in your heart. He initiates marching orders daily so His disciples know where to go, what to say and how to behave. As your body calls out three times a day for food’s nourishment, so your soul’s appetite growls for God with a hungry heart. Feed it by faith and enjoy its fullness.
What competing voices vex your mind and emotions? Is it a voice of fear from within, a voice of criticism from without or a voice of disbelief from below? Indeed, it is the voice of assurance and affirmation from above that provides everyday encouragement to your life. The voice of the Lord vows to be your delight and bold advocate. So, listen intently to the one voice that is guaranteed to give you life and hope.
“Love the LORD your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him. For the LORD is your life” (Deuteronomy 30:20a).
Daily you have the opportunity to rest in the Lord or get worked up. He longs to walk with you and talk with you. As you face big decisions and create future plans, Jesus is ever ready to grow in a loving relationship with you. Perhaps you slow down and see Him for who He is: holy, wise and joyful. He speaks through His word, His creation, His children, His circumstances and His Spirit. Everyday with Jesus is sweet and satisfying.
“Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior, who daily bears our burdens” (Psalm 68:19).
How can I let the Lord love me each day, so I can in turn love others with His love?
Related Readings: Job 37:5; Psalm 95:7; Luke 9:23; Hebrews 3:13
Everyday Relationship
"I am the good shepherd; I know My sheep and My sheep know Me— just as the Father knows Me and I know the Father—and I lay down My life for the sheep.” (John 10:14, 15 NIV)
Jesus desires an everyday relationship with those He has given eternal life. Like a sensitive shepherd individually cares for his sheep, so Christ cares for His flock of followers. Daily a wise sheep herder looks to keep the sheep from harm and leads them into green pastures. Similarly, the Lord watches out each day for the interests of His children whom He protects and provides.
If we wander away from the influence of our Great Shepherd Jesus, we risk exposure to evil elements. However, as we remain in the shadow of His long supportive staff, we benefit from His benevolence and His capacity for good. Each day we have the opportunity to engage eternal resources for His Kingdom purposes. So, pray that everyday with Jesus is sweeter than the day before.
"Blessed are those who listen to me, watching daily at my doors, waiting at my doorway" (Proverbs 8:34).
Listen for the Lord’s voice and He will speak truth that you can treasure in your heart. He initiates marching orders daily so His disciples know where to go, what to say and how to behave. As your body calls out three times a day for food’s nourishment, so your soul’s appetite growls for God with a hungry heart. Feed it by faith and enjoy its fullness.
What competing voices vex your mind and emotions? Is it a voice of fear from within, a voice of criticism from without or a voice of disbelief from below? Indeed, it is the voice of assurance and affirmation from above that provides everyday encouragement to your life. The voice of the Lord vows to be your delight and bold advocate. So, listen intently to the one voice that is guaranteed to give you life and hope.
“Love the LORD your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him. For the LORD is your life” (Deuteronomy 30:20a).
Daily you have the opportunity to rest in the Lord or get worked up. He longs to walk with you and talk with you. As you face big decisions and create future plans, Jesus is ever ready to grow in a loving relationship with you. Perhaps you slow down and see Him for who He is: holy, wise and joyful. He speaks through His word, His creation, His children, His circumstances and His Spirit. Everyday with Jesus is sweet and satisfying.
“Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior, who daily bears our burdens” (Psalm 68:19).
How can I let the Lord love me each day, so I can in turn love others with His love?
Related Readings: Job 37:5; Psalm 95:7; Luke 9:23; Hebrews 3:13
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Poor and Needy
11-15-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Poor and Needy
“But as for me, I am poor and needy; may the Lord think of me. You are my help and my deliverer; you are my God, do not delay.” Psalm 40:17
Mature and growing disciples of Jesus understand their utter dependence on Him. A man or woman of high position has to come low before the Lord to learn of Him. Money cannot buy the blessing of God. It’s only in going before Him in brokenness that spiritual riches can be received. A needy soul needs a Savior to see it through troubled times.
We don’t wait and go to God after we have it all together. Instead, we enter into His presence poor in our ability to change circumstances and people. We long for the Lord’s help sooner than later, because we understand He has the right answers. The world’s solutions prove sterile and ineffective compared to the wisdom from intimacy with Jesus.
“I thank and praise You, God of my ancestors: You have given me wisdom and power, You have made known to me what we asked of You, You have made known to us the dream of the king” (Daniel 2:23).
Are your actions independent of Almighty God or are you solely dependent on Him? Jesus stands at the door of your life, not just for salvation, but for ongoing fellowship. So, humbly invite Him into the home of your heart, even when it’s cluttered with confusion or messy from mistakes. You need the Lord’s help to handle life’s hurts.
The first Adam thought he needed more knowledge from a tree in order to live for God, but the second Adam (Jesus), knew He needed to die on a tree to live for His heavenly Father. Your Savior Jesus lifts up your surrendered soul to see the light of His love. He takes your submission and aligns your heart around His will. His poverty makes you rich.
“For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sake He became poor, so that you through His poverty might become rich” (2 Corinthians 8:9).
Thus, cease from striving in your own strength and surrender to the Spirit’s resources. Confess your inability to be a loyal friend without an infusion of faith. Recognize you are poor and needy as a parent, but in Christ, you are a more than competent caregiver for your children. Relational and health issues, or problems at work are opportunities for God’s grace to grace your attitude and actions. Spiritual riches await the poor in spirit.
"You're blessed when you're at the end of your rope. With less of you there is more of God and His rule” (Matthew 5:3, The Message).
Where specifically in my life am I poor and needy for the Lord’s spiritual riches?
Related Readings: Psalm 109:22; 1 Corinthians 1:18-30; 2 Corinthians 1:12
Poor and Needy
“But as for me, I am poor and needy; may the Lord think of me. You are my help and my deliverer; you are my God, do not delay.” Psalm 40:17
Mature and growing disciples of Jesus understand their utter dependence on Him. A man or woman of high position has to come low before the Lord to learn of Him. Money cannot buy the blessing of God. It’s only in going before Him in brokenness that spiritual riches can be received. A needy soul needs a Savior to see it through troubled times.
We don’t wait and go to God after we have it all together. Instead, we enter into His presence poor in our ability to change circumstances and people. We long for the Lord’s help sooner than later, because we understand He has the right answers. The world’s solutions prove sterile and ineffective compared to the wisdom from intimacy with Jesus.
“I thank and praise You, God of my ancestors: You have given me wisdom and power, You have made known to me what we asked of You, You have made known to us the dream of the king” (Daniel 2:23).
Are your actions independent of Almighty God or are you solely dependent on Him? Jesus stands at the door of your life, not just for salvation, but for ongoing fellowship. So, humbly invite Him into the home of your heart, even when it’s cluttered with confusion or messy from mistakes. You need the Lord’s help to handle life’s hurts.
The first Adam thought he needed more knowledge from a tree in order to live for God, but the second Adam (Jesus), knew He needed to die on a tree to live for His heavenly Father. Your Savior Jesus lifts up your surrendered soul to see the light of His love. He takes your submission and aligns your heart around His will. His poverty makes you rich.
“For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sake He became poor, so that you through His poverty might become rich” (2 Corinthians 8:9).
Thus, cease from striving in your own strength and surrender to the Spirit’s resources. Confess your inability to be a loyal friend without an infusion of faith. Recognize you are poor and needy as a parent, but in Christ, you are a more than competent caregiver for your children. Relational and health issues, or problems at work are opportunities for God’s grace to grace your attitude and actions. Spiritual riches await the poor in spirit.
"You're blessed when you're at the end of your rope. With less of you there is more of God and His rule” (Matthew 5:3, The Message).
Where specifically in my life am I poor and needy for the Lord’s spiritual riches?
Related Readings: Psalm 109:22; 1 Corinthians 1:18-30; 2 Corinthians 1:12
Monday, November 14, 2011
The Lord's Servant
11-14-2011 by Boyd Bailey
The Lord’s Servant
“Praise the Lord, all you servants of the Lord…” Psalm 134:1a
Servants of the Lord have one goal, and that is to serve at the pleasure of their Master Jesus Christ. It is an honor to represent the vision, mission and values of heaven. Servants of God are quick to praise Him. They show respect by blessing His name, and loathe the thought of disrespect in cursing His name. Followers of Jesus think well and speak well of Him. He is the object of their affection, the adoration of their worship.
Servants of the Lord bless the one from whom all blessings flow. They speak well of their Master. Wise servants understand that the purpose of serving God is not just accomplishing the work, but representing Him in their work. Therefore, toil in trust and do not give up for Christ’s sake. You are a servant of the Most High, so hold your head high and your heart low. He keeps His covenant of love for those who long for Him.
“He said: “LORD, the God of Israel, there is no God like you in heaven or on earth—you who keep your covenant of love with your servants who continue wholeheartedly in your way” (2 Chronicles 6:14).
Servants of the Lord also serve those their Master loves and accepts. There is alignment around the Almighty’s interest in people and their needs. He feeds and clothes the poor, so you feed and clothe the poor. He forgives and frees those who sin against Him, so you forgive and free those who sin against you. He seeks and saves the lost with the glory of the gospel, so you seek and save the lost with the glory of the gospel.
Unrecognized service seems insignificant, but it is the most significant. What others don’t see, God does, and He rewards accordingly. The Lord blesses those who bless others on His behalf. Servants of the Lord are significant Kingdom builders, so stay put in your service on His behalf. The best service leads others to understand the way to be saved.
May others see you in this same way, “These men are servants of the Most High God, who are telling you the way to be saved” (Acts 16:17b).
How can I serve the Lord with gladness, and bless Him and others in the process?
Related Readings: Nehemiah 1:11; Psalm 85:8; Isaiah 56:6; Acts 4:29; Revelation 22:6
The Lord’s Servant
“Praise the Lord, all you servants of the Lord…” Psalm 134:1a
Servants of the Lord have one goal, and that is to serve at the pleasure of their Master Jesus Christ. It is an honor to represent the vision, mission and values of heaven. Servants of God are quick to praise Him. They show respect by blessing His name, and loathe the thought of disrespect in cursing His name. Followers of Jesus think well and speak well of Him. He is the object of their affection, the adoration of their worship.
Servants of the Lord bless the one from whom all blessings flow. They speak well of their Master. Wise servants understand that the purpose of serving God is not just accomplishing the work, but representing Him in their work. Therefore, toil in trust and do not give up for Christ’s sake. You are a servant of the Most High, so hold your head high and your heart low. He keeps His covenant of love for those who long for Him.
“He said: “LORD, the God of Israel, there is no God like you in heaven or on earth—you who keep your covenant of love with your servants who continue wholeheartedly in your way” (2 Chronicles 6:14).
Servants of the Lord also serve those their Master loves and accepts. There is alignment around the Almighty’s interest in people and their needs. He feeds and clothes the poor, so you feed and clothe the poor. He forgives and frees those who sin against Him, so you forgive and free those who sin against you. He seeks and saves the lost with the glory of the gospel, so you seek and save the lost with the glory of the gospel.
Unrecognized service seems insignificant, but it is the most significant. What others don’t see, God does, and He rewards accordingly. The Lord blesses those who bless others on His behalf. Servants of the Lord are significant Kingdom builders, so stay put in your service on His behalf. The best service leads others to understand the way to be saved.
May others see you in this same way, “These men are servants of the Most High God, who are telling you the way to be saved” (Acts 16:17b).
How can I serve the Lord with gladness, and bless Him and others in the process?
Related Readings: Nehemiah 1:11; Psalm 85:8; Isaiah 56:6; Acts 4:29; Revelation 22:6
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Patient Love
11-12-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Patient Love
“Love is patient.” I Corinthians 13:4
Love, by nature, is patient. This is why those couples who are “in love” exhibit an inordinate amount of patience in the beginning. What is said, what is done or not done has extra grace embedded in the relationship. Lovers believe, “I will let you down. You will let me down. I will act immaturely. You will act immaturely. I will struggle with fear. You will struggle with fear.
We both need patience, for love is “patient.” If there is no evidence of patience in a relationship, then there is a love deficiency. Love expresses itself in patience. For example, you serve your children because you love them. They are sometimes silly and prone to foolishness, but you still love them. Because you love them, you are patient with them.
This may become more of a challenge when you relate this thinking to relationships outside of your family. A work associate, a stranger, or especially someone outside the faith, is harder to love. You barely know them. Therefore, how can you love them? The most difficult to love is someone who has offended you. We tend to lose our patience with those who are offensive. So, here is an important distinction to make.
You love someone, not because they necessarily deserve it, but because they are created in the image of God. Jesus loved them so much He died for them. You can disapprove of their behavior and still love them. Your willingness to tolerate delay may keep the relationship intact. This is love. This is patience. Your calmness and self-control may be the very thing needed to stabilize the situation. Wake up loving, go to bed loving, and love in between. This environment of love will nurture and produce patience—lots of it.
God understands this because He is love. Therefore, He is the epitome of patience. If anyone has the right to lose His patience, it is God. Everyday He deals with billions of sinners, many of whom are demanding their way. Some are oblivious to God. Some are harsh and angry toward God. But because of His great love for mankind, His longsuffering endures rejection and apathy.
He feels compassion, not defiance, toward someone—lost in his or her sins—flailing away in criticism toward Christ. His love expands rather than contracts in the face of your failures. His capacity to love is greater than ours and his propensity for patience is also greater. But followers of Jesus have the Holy Spirit dwelling within them to love through them. The state of an unredeemed sinner is a limited love. The condition of a saved sinner is Christ’s capacity to love.
Thus, you have the potential for a higher degree of patience. Allow Christ to love through you, and watch your patience grow and expand. Do not fall into the trap of an angry rebuttal. People and situations tend to cool off tomorrow. You still confront, but in the right timing and in the right way. Invest in patience, and the pay off is exponential. Express patience, and everyone is in a better state of mind to discuss the facts. Love the unlovable. Love the undeserving. Love the impatient. Love keeps your motive pure. Love feeds a healthy perspective.
By your love you can be patient, because love is patient. Jesus patiently loved the unlovely. The Bible says, “Jesus looked at him and loved him…” (Mark 10:21a).
Patient Love
“Love is patient.” I Corinthians 13:4
Love, by nature, is patient. This is why those couples who are “in love” exhibit an inordinate amount of patience in the beginning. What is said, what is done or not done has extra grace embedded in the relationship. Lovers believe, “I will let you down. You will let me down. I will act immaturely. You will act immaturely. I will struggle with fear. You will struggle with fear.
We both need patience, for love is “patient.” If there is no evidence of patience in a relationship, then there is a love deficiency. Love expresses itself in patience. For example, you serve your children because you love them. They are sometimes silly and prone to foolishness, but you still love them. Because you love them, you are patient with them.
This may become more of a challenge when you relate this thinking to relationships outside of your family. A work associate, a stranger, or especially someone outside the faith, is harder to love. You barely know them. Therefore, how can you love them? The most difficult to love is someone who has offended you. We tend to lose our patience with those who are offensive. So, here is an important distinction to make.
You love someone, not because they necessarily deserve it, but because they are created in the image of God. Jesus loved them so much He died for them. You can disapprove of their behavior and still love them. Your willingness to tolerate delay may keep the relationship intact. This is love. This is patience. Your calmness and self-control may be the very thing needed to stabilize the situation. Wake up loving, go to bed loving, and love in between. This environment of love will nurture and produce patience—lots of it.
God understands this because He is love. Therefore, He is the epitome of patience. If anyone has the right to lose His patience, it is God. Everyday He deals with billions of sinners, many of whom are demanding their way. Some are oblivious to God. Some are harsh and angry toward God. But because of His great love for mankind, His longsuffering endures rejection and apathy.
He feels compassion, not defiance, toward someone—lost in his or her sins—flailing away in criticism toward Christ. His love expands rather than contracts in the face of your failures. His capacity to love is greater than ours and his propensity for patience is also greater. But followers of Jesus have the Holy Spirit dwelling within them to love through them. The state of an unredeemed sinner is a limited love. The condition of a saved sinner is Christ’s capacity to love.
Thus, you have the potential for a higher degree of patience. Allow Christ to love through you, and watch your patience grow and expand. Do not fall into the trap of an angry rebuttal. People and situations tend to cool off tomorrow. You still confront, but in the right timing and in the right way. Invest in patience, and the pay off is exponential. Express patience, and everyone is in a better state of mind to discuss the facts. Love the unlovable. Love the undeserving. Love the impatient. Love keeps your motive pure. Love feeds a healthy perspective.
By your love you can be patient, because love is patient. Jesus patiently loved the unlovely. The Bible says, “Jesus looked at him and loved him…” (Mark 10:21a).
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Be Courageous
11-10-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Be Courageous
“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.” 1 Corinthians 16:13
Courage is an asset Christ dispenses to His disciples. It is the ability to stand for what’s right in the face of what’s wrong. It is an attitude of hope for someone struck down by illness, who chooses to look up and glorify God in life or death. Courageous Christ followers set boundaries for business or leisure travels and avoid activities that lead them into temptation. Courage is the gumption to get on God’s game plan and not give up.
Alertness to courage dismisses dullness to sin and replaces it with energy for eternal matters. Courage from Christ gives confidence in the face of conflict. It provides a quiet assurance that Almighty God is in control and He will carry out His purpose in His time. The Lord gives sufficient courage to stand firm in the faith and remain faithful to Him.
“I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death” (Philippians 1:20).
So, what are you facing that requires you to courageously come through? Is death staring you in the face? Take courage, it is your ticket to transition to be with Christ. Has a financial free fall crushed your net worth? Take courage, Christ is King, not cash. Is there a conflict at work or home that consumes your thoughts? Take courage in your mediator and master Christ Jesus. Courage is a gift from God that gets you through difficulty.
Courage comes in various forms and functions. It may be a phone call from a trusted friend who listens and affirms your character. A single scripture from the Bible may ring true to your spirit and, in the process, ratchet up your faith. The chorus from a praise song to Jesus can become a capsule of courage, that when ingested in worship soothes your soul. It may be a prayer, a smile, a kind word, a check or a sermon that bolsters belief.
“When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus” (Acts 4:13).
You receive courage so you can give courage. Encouragement is a gift that keeps on giving, not meant to be stored up and ignored. Like manure it can waste away stacked up in a barn or it can be spread around and make things grow. How do you know if someone needs encouragement? You know they need encouragement if they are breathing. Be courageous in Christ and infect others with courage. Indeed, courage creates courage.
Where do I need to trust Christ for courage? Who do I know who needs my encouraging word and works?
Related Readings: Joshua 10:25; 2 Samuel 7:27; Mark 6:50; Acts 27:22-25
Be Courageous
“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.” 1 Corinthians 16:13
Courage is an asset Christ dispenses to His disciples. It is the ability to stand for what’s right in the face of what’s wrong. It is an attitude of hope for someone struck down by illness, who chooses to look up and glorify God in life or death. Courageous Christ followers set boundaries for business or leisure travels and avoid activities that lead them into temptation. Courage is the gumption to get on God’s game plan and not give up.
Alertness to courage dismisses dullness to sin and replaces it with energy for eternal matters. Courage from Christ gives confidence in the face of conflict. It provides a quiet assurance that Almighty God is in control and He will carry out His purpose in His time. The Lord gives sufficient courage to stand firm in the faith and remain faithful to Him.
“I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death” (Philippians 1:20).
So, what are you facing that requires you to courageously come through? Is death staring you in the face? Take courage, it is your ticket to transition to be with Christ. Has a financial free fall crushed your net worth? Take courage, Christ is King, not cash. Is there a conflict at work or home that consumes your thoughts? Take courage in your mediator and master Christ Jesus. Courage is a gift from God that gets you through difficulty.
Courage comes in various forms and functions. It may be a phone call from a trusted friend who listens and affirms your character. A single scripture from the Bible may ring true to your spirit and, in the process, ratchet up your faith. The chorus from a praise song to Jesus can become a capsule of courage, that when ingested in worship soothes your soul. It may be a prayer, a smile, a kind word, a check or a sermon that bolsters belief.
“When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus” (Acts 4:13).
You receive courage so you can give courage. Encouragement is a gift that keeps on giving, not meant to be stored up and ignored. Like manure it can waste away stacked up in a barn or it can be spread around and make things grow. How do you know if someone needs encouragement? You know they need encouragement if they are breathing. Be courageous in Christ and infect others with courage. Indeed, courage creates courage.
Where do I need to trust Christ for courage? Who do I know who needs my encouraging word and works?
Related Readings: Joshua 10:25; 2 Samuel 7:27; Mark 6:50; Acts 27:22-25
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Battle Fatigue
11-6-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Battle Fatigue
“David went down with his men to fight against the Philistines, and he became exhausted.… But Abishai son of Zeruiah came to David’s rescue; he struck the Philistine down and killed him.” 2 Samuel 21:15b, 17a
“Doing life” is a heavy battle to endure. There are days fatigue takes your faith to its breaking point. You grow weary of financial struggles. The pain of separation has sapped every ounce of energy from your being. The pressures at work have crushed your spirit. It seems like one additional problem could send you over the edge. You may be suffering from spiritual battle fatigue. This is the time to regroup and engage in the encouragement of other Jesus followers.
Spiritual battle fatigue is the time you are the most susceptible to sin. Now is not the time to add another initiative, or you could flail away, faithless and vulnerable to unwise decision-making. Indeed, there are friends in your life whom you can trust for counsel and direction. It is imperative for you to get under their accountability. Accountability is something given by you. So, use this time of exposure to submit to their support and good advice. If you plow ahead, however, you are taking unnecessary chances.
Exhaustion blurs the mind and deceives the heart. When you are spent is not the time to confront conflict. A tired life faces conflict at a disadvantage. Either you lash out in anger over the injustice you are feeling, or you lose your patience and judge others prematurely. Do not be embarrassed to admit that you need a break. This is a time to explicitly trust others for a season and not to teeter on the edge of exhaustion.
People are waiting in the wings to rescue you. Yes, it is humbling to think we need to be rescued. But without the assistance of a friend or relative, you may very well collapse under the weight of the burden you are bearing. Confess your need and accept their help. Everyone will be blessed as a consequence.
Battle fatigue also requires reengagement with God. Your sweet time with Jesus is required to gain back your strength in Him. Your inner resolve is renewed by focused time with your heavenly Father. He understands the demands of your world. He is there to renew your mind with the truth of His Word. He is sensitive to your damaged heart, and with His comfort and love He will extract the fiery darts of the enemy and bring healing. He recognizes your frail faith and is positioned to inject it with hope and peace.
God specializes in “soul care” by giving rest and refuge to exhausted lives. Moreover, while God is strengthening you, Jesus is fighting for you. He is the righteous warrior par excellence! The battle scars of Christ were born out of heated moments of engagement with Satan himself. Jesus understands the wiles of the devil. He has met him face to face and has overcome Him by the Word of God. And so shall you.
Indeed, you have the privilege of submitting to the Lordship of Jesus so that He can fight for you. In your own strength, especially in your place of exhaustion and fading faith, you are no match for the unseen enemy. He will use mind games and emotional sabotage to get you to give up on God. Now is the time to call upon the name of the Lord. He will save you from yourself. He will save you from Satan. He will save you from sinners. He will save you from success. He will save you from exhaustion.
God is your righteous rescuer, who is poised to invade the enemy’s territory. Do not be shy to invite Him into the battle with you. Your faith may be waning, but men of flesh and blood are not the foe. Spiritual battles require spiritual resources. Therefore, seek His face and apply His resources well!
Battle Fatigue
“David went down with his men to fight against the Philistines, and he became exhausted.… But Abishai son of Zeruiah came to David’s rescue; he struck the Philistine down and killed him.” 2 Samuel 21:15b, 17a
“Doing life” is a heavy battle to endure. There are days fatigue takes your faith to its breaking point. You grow weary of financial struggles. The pain of separation has sapped every ounce of energy from your being. The pressures at work have crushed your spirit. It seems like one additional problem could send you over the edge. You may be suffering from spiritual battle fatigue. This is the time to regroup and engage in the encouragement of other Jesus followers.
Spiritual battle fatigue is the time you are the most susceptible to sin. Now is not the time to add another initiative, or you could flail away, faithless and vulnerable to unwise decision-making. Indeed, there are friends in your life whom you can trust for counsel and direction. It is imperative for you to get under their accountability. Accountability is something given by you. So, use this time of exposure to submit to their support and good advice. If you plow ahead, however, you are taking unnecessary chances.
Exhaustion blurs the mind and deceives the heart. When you are spent is not the time to confront conflict. A tired life faces conflict at a disadvantage. Either you lash out in anger over the injustice you are feeling, or you lose your patience and judge others prematurely. Do not be embarrassed to admit that you need a break. This is a time to explicitly trust others for a season and not to teeter on the edge of exhaustion.
People are waiting in the wings to rescue you. Yes, it is humbling to think we need to be rescued. But without the assistance of a friend or relative, you may very well collapse under the weight of the burden you are bearing. Confess your need and accept their help. Everyone will be blessed as a consequence.
Battle fatigue also requires reengagement with God. Your sweet time with Jesus is required to gain back your strength in Him. Your inner resolve is renewed by focused time with your heavenly Father. He understands the demands of your world. He is there to renew your mind with the truth of His Word. He is sensitive to your damaged heart, and with His comfort and love He will extract the fiery darts of the enemy and bring healing. He recognizes your frail faith and is positioned to inject it with hope and peace.
God specializes in “soul care” by giving rest and refuge to exhausted lives. Moreover, while God is strengthening you, Jesus is fighting for you. He is the righteous warrior par excellence! The battle scars of Christ were born out of heated moments of engagement with Satan himself. Jesus understands the wiles of the devil. He has met him face to face and has overcome Him by the Word of God. And so shall you.
Indeed, you have the privilege of submitting to the Lordship of Jesus so that He can fight for you. In your own strength, especially in your place of exhaustion and fading faith, you are no match for the unseen enemy. He will use mind games and emotional sabotage to get you to give up on God. Now is the time to call upon the name of the Lord. He will save you from yourself. He will save you from Satan. He will save you from sinners. He will save you from success. He will save you from exhaustion.
God is your righteous rescuer, who is poised to invade the enemy’s territory. Do not be shy to invite Him into the battle with you. Your faith may be waning, but men of flesh and blood are not the foe. Spiritual battles require spiritual resources. Therefore, seek His face and apply His resources well!
Friday, November 4, 2011
Hardships Endured
11-4-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Hardships Endured
“O Lord, remember David and all the hardships he endured.” Psalm 132:1
Hardships are meant to point us to heaven. It is our hope in heaven that helps us through turbulent times. Yes, it can try our trust in the Lord, but He is our one constant support. The foundation of circumstances may shift under our feet from economic earthquakes, but these temporal tremors need not distract our focus on the eternal.
Christ does not change. His desire is to change us into becoming more like Him. His promises and character are consistent and a rock of refuge. In our pain it is ok to plead with God for relief, and to remember the sufferings of His son Jesus on our behalf. After all, it’s the merit of Christ’s afflictions and death that we are able to approach the Lord for life and love.
“But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed” (Isaiah 53:5, KJV).
Furthermore, see hardships as heaven’s hammer to chip away pride, ego, false beliefs and unbecoming behavior. We are all a work in progress in need of the Lord’s loving but convicting light to shine on our shortcomings. You can endure this downturn in financial fortune, because your security is in your Savior, and not your net worth.
You will endure this bruising of your reputation because, like Jesus, you are a man or woman of ‘no reputation’: “But made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men” (Philippians 2:7, KJV).
David endured hardships because he was so busy doing the work of the Lord he did not have time for anxious speculations. Therefore, be consumed with Christ and executing His agenda. You will find little time for worry when all you want is to worship, love and to obey the Lord. Use hardships as an excuse to engage heaven’s resources for His glory.
Follow the example of Jesus in enduring hardships, “…who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart” (Hebrews 12:2b-3).
How does Christ want to change me during these changing times?
Related Readings: Psalm 69:7-10; Proverbs 18:14; 1 Corinthians 10:13; Revelation 2:3
Hardships Endured
“O Lord, remember David and all the hardships he endured.” Psalm 132:1
Hardships are meant to point us to heaven. It is our hope in heaven that helps us through turbulent times. Yes, it can try our trust in the Lord, but He is our one constant support. The foundation of circumstances may shift under our feet from economic earthquakes, but these temporal tremors need not distract our focus on the eternal.
Christ does not change. His desire is to change us into becoming more like Him. His promises and character are consistent and a rock of refuge. In our pain it is ok to plead with God for relief, and to remember the sufferings of His son Jesus on our behalf. After all, it’s the merit of Christ’s afflictions and death that we are able to approach the Lord for life and love.
“But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed” (Isaiah 53:5, KJV).
Furthermore, see hardships as heaven’s hammer to chip away pride, ego, false beliefs and unbecoming behavior. We are all a work in progress in need of the Lord’s loving but convicting light to shine on our shortcomings. You can endure this downturn in financial fortune, because your security is in your Savior, and not your net worth.
You will endure this bruising of your reputation because, like Jesus, you are a man or woman of ‘no reputation’: “But made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men” (Philippians 2:7, KJV).
David endured hardships because he was so busy doing the work of the Lord he did not have time for anxious speculations. Therefore, be consumed with Christ and executing His agenda. You will find little time for worry when all you want is to worship, love and to obey the Lord. Use hardships as an excuse to engage heaven’s resources for His glory.
Follow the example of Jesus in enduring hardships, “…who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart” (Hebrews 12:2b-3).
How does Christ want to change me during these changing times?
Related Readings: Psalm 69:7-10; Proverbs 18:14; 1 Corinthians 10:13; Revelation 2:3
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Stilled and Quieted
11-3-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Stilled and Quieted
“But I have stilled and quieted my soul; like a weaned child with its mother, like a weaned child is my soul within me.” Psalm 131:2
The raging waves of the world’s worries crash against the shore of our soul. At work it may be missed deadlines, or mismanagement of money. At home it may be miscommunication, or a monster of a child. At school it may be the misconduct of others, or the misfortune of feeling alone. Life is loud, and, sometimes, its deafening tones tune out our trust in God.
Only in silence can our soul be resuscitated by our Savior Jesus. He works wonders when we wait before Him. We are clamorous without Christ, but by grace our soul is subdued and soothed. Calm and contentment come forth by faith, when we are stilled and quieted before Christ. One example is the emotional word picture of parental love.
“As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you; and you will be comforted over Jerusalem” (Isaiah 66:13).
A mother is a comfort to her weaned child, even though she has denied him or her comfort. So as you linger quietly with the Lord in anticipation, it may not be what you want, but what you need that He gives you. You may want to leave, but He knows you need to stay. You may want to start a ministry, but He knows you need to run a business. You may want to marry, but He knows you need to mature more in your faith and grow more stable in your finances. You may want to get, but He knows you need to give.
You may want a promotion, but He knows you need to learn faithfulness and contentment where you currently work. The Holy Spirit may be weaning you off of someone or something, so you will only want and need Him. So, still and quiet your soul by inviting your heavenly Father’s warm embrace. You can sleep well when He holds you.
Therefore, by God’s grace, remain childlike in your faith and character. Keep your heart humble and honest under heaven’s hope. Like a child looks to it’s mother for comfort and security, look to your Savior Jesus for His quiet confidence and strength. A heart kept by Christ, lives for Christ. Settle your soul in stillness and solitude with Jesus.
Jesus says, “I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 18:3).
What routines can I integrate into my daily life, so I can be still and quiet before Christ?
Related Readings: Job 6:24; Psalm 23:2; Isaiah 30:15; Mark 6:31; 1 Thessalonians 4:11
Stilled and Quieted
“But I have stilled and quieted my soul; like a weaned child with its mother, like a weaned child is my soul within me.” Psalm 131:2
The raging waves of the world’s worries crash against the shore of our soul. At work it may be missed deadlines, or mismanagement of money. At home it may be miscommunication, or a monster of a child. At school it may be the misconduct of others, or the misfortune of feeling alone. Life is loud, and, sometimes, its deafening tones tune out our trust in God.
Only in silence can our soul be resuscitated by our Savior Jesus. He works wonders when we wait before Him. We are clamorous without Christ, but by grace our soul is subdued and soothed. Calm and contentment come forth by faith, when we are stilled and quieted before Christ. One example is the emotional word picture of parental love.
“As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you; and you will be comforted over Jerusalem” (Isaiah 66:13).
A mother is a comfort to her weaned child, even though she has denied him or her comfort. So as you linger quietly with the Lord in anticipation, it may not be what you want, but what you need that He gives you. You may want to leave, but He knows you need to stay. You may want to start a ministry, but He knows you need to run a business. You may want to marry, but He knows you need to mature more in your faith and grow more stable in your finances. You may want to get, but He knows you need to give.
You may want a promotion, but He knows you need to learn faithfulness and contentment where you currently work. The Holy Spirit may be weaning you off of someone or something, so you will only want and need Him. So, still and quiet your soul by inviting your heavenly Father’s warm embrace. You can sleep well when He holds you.
Therefore, by God’s grace, remain childlike in your faith and character. Keep your heart humble and honest under heaven’s hope. Like a child looks to it’s mother for comfort and security, look to your Savior Jesus for His quiet confidence and strength. A heart kept by Christ, lives for Christ. Settle your soul in stillness and solitude with Jesus.
Jesus says, “I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 18:3).
What routines can I integrate into my daily life, so I can be still and quiet before Christ?
Related Readings: Job 6:24; Psalm 23:2; Isaiah 30:15; Mark 6:31; 1 Thessalonians 4:11
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Clean Slate
11-2-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Clean Slate
“If you, O Lord, keep a record of sins, O Lord, who could stand? But with you there is forgiveness; therefore you are feared. Psalm 130:3-4
With our Savior Jesus, there is a clean slate when we bring our sin to the cross. God placed our sin on His son for our salvation. Sinfully exposed, we are at the mercy of Almighty God. His holiness helps us better understand our helplessness outside of heaven. So our King Jesus extends a full pardon to all who believe, for it is His prerogative to forgive.
Forgiveness is at the forefront of our heavenly Father’s thinking. The power of pardon is permanent with God, and He is ready to forgive in an instant. So go to God with guilt, and leave lust and lies with Him, because He saves and forgives to the uttermost. Invite the grace of God to govern your actions and attitudes. Freed-up people free others to enjoy the fruits of forgiveness.
“He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit” (Titus 3:5).
Moreover, a clean slate from sin is even more reason to fear God. This is the fruit of faith, because you have experienced His redeeming love. The fear of God results from gratitude for the grace given to us by God. There is robust respect and awe for the Almighty, because He does not rain down judgment. God’s grace leads us to have such a holy regard for Him that we fear grieving Him with continued sin.
Therefore, because you have been forgiven much, forgive much. It is not possible or healthy to keep score with those who have hurt you. So, pardon your parents and your pastor, forgive your friends and enemies, and let go of unmet expectations. Your fear of God and gratitude to God facilitates forgiveness with your fellowman.
Since Christ has given you a clean slate you can extend a clean slate to those by whom you feel slighted. Wipe clean the slate of sin with the grace of God that has been given to you, and watch Him, by faith, paint a beautiful canvas of forgiveness and love. You can start over with someone, because your Savior Jesus believes in second chances.
The Bible says, “Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you” (Colossians 3:13).
How can I best express my gratitude to God for His pardoning of all my sins?
Related Readings: 1 Corinthians 13:5; Hebrews 10:22; 2 Timothy 1:9
Clean Slate
“If you, O Lord, keep a record of sins, O Lord, who could stand? But with you there is forgiveness; therefore you are feared. Psalm 130:3-4
With our Savior Jesus, there is a clean slate when we bring our sin to the cross. God placed our sin on His son for our salvation. Sinfully exposed, we are at the mercy of Almighty God. His holiness helps us better understand our helplessness outside of heaven. So our King Jesus extends a full pardon to all who believe, for it is His prerogative to forgive.
Forgiveness is at the forefront of our heavenly Father’s thinking. The power of pardon is permanent with God, and He is ready to forgive in an instant. So go to God with guilt, and leave lust and lies with Him, because He saves and forgives to the uttermost. Invite the grace of God to govern your actions and attitudes. Freed-up people free others to enjoy the fruits of forgiveness.
“He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit” (Titus 3:5).
Moreover, a clean slate from sin is even more reason to fear God. This is the fruit of faith, because you have experienced His redeeming love. The fear of God results from gratitude for the grace given to us by God. There is robust respect and awe for the Almighty, because He does not rain down judgment. God’s grace leads us to have such a holy regard for Him that we fear grieving Him with continued sin.
Therefore, because you have been forgiven much, forgive much. It is not possible or healthy to keep score with those who have hurt you. So, pardon your parents and your pastor, forgive your friends and enemies, and let go of unmet expectations. Your fear of God and gratitude to God facilitates forgiveness with your fellowman.
Since Christ has given you a clean slate you can extend a clean slate to those by whom you feel slighted. Wipe clean the slate of sin with the grace of God that has been given to you, and watch Him, by faith, paint a beautiful canvas of forgiveness and love. You can start over with someone, because your Savior Jesus believes in second chances.
The Bible says, “Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you” (Colossians 3:13).
How can I best express my gratitude to God for His pardoning of all my sins?
Related Readings: 1 Corinthians 13:5; Hebrews 10:22; 2 Timothy 1:9
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Cut Free
11-1-2011 by Boyd Bailey
Cut Free
“But the Lord is righteous; he has cut me free from the cords of the wicked”. Psalm 129:4
Christ cuts us free from the cords of wicked oppressors. It may seem like the wicked have won at times, but this is the testing of our trust. The obstinate may be an entity of God’s discipline to break our pride and smooth the edges of our ego. Then we can see those who oppose righteous ways as an instrument of the Lord to instruct us in how to live by faith.
You may have a family member whose faith is a façade. If so, serve them with authentic and unselfish living. Pray their pretentious life will lose its appeal, and they will be cut free from a caricature of Christian living. We have been cut free by Christ, freed to serve Him and others. Freedom is for those who live by faith and not by sight.
“For we live by faith, not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5:7).
Furthermore, the Lord has cut you free from frivolous and irresponsible living for a life of faith. No longer do you have to roam around like an unsure beast, stuck in a purposeless predicament. You have the resources of heaven to help you understand the way. You are cut free from cynicism to hope, from insecurity to security, from greed to generosity, from resentment to forgiveness, and from worry to peace.
Christ has cut you free from circumstantial faith (based on the economy or anything uncertain), to a trust rooted in unchanging truth; Jesus Himself. So do not allow the cords of your circumstances to choke out your belief in God. By faith invite the sharp scissors of your Savior to slice through your situation, and set you free to live and love the Lord, others and yourself.
Jesus says, “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed” (John 8:36).
Does a secret (or not so secret) sin hold you back from enjoying all that Jesus has to give you? If so, seek out His forgiveness and healing. Submerge yourself in the security and accountability of other Christ followers. You can be unencumbered by earthly weights that hold you down like a helium balloon that’s unable to lift off from its ties to the ground. Therefore, go to God and receive His grace that allows you to fly by faith!
“But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves of God, the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life” (Romans 6:22).
From what attitude or actions do I need Christ to cut me free?
Related Readings: Acts 13:39; Romans 6:7-20; Hebrews 9:15; Revelation 1:5
Cut Free
“But the Lord is righteous; he has cut me free from the cords of the wicked”. Psalm 129:4
Christ cuts us free from the cords of wicked oppressors. It may seem like the wicked have won at times, but this is the testing of our trust. The obstinate may be an entity of God’s discipline to break our pride and smooth the edges of our ego. Then we can see those who oppose righteous ways as an instrument of the Lord to instruct us in how to live by faith.
You may have a family member whose faith is a façade. If so, serve them with authentic and unselfish living. Pray their pretentious life will lose its appeal, and they will be cut free from a caricature of Christian living. We have been cut free by Christ, freed to serve Him and others. Freedom is for those who live by faith and not by sight.
“For we live by faith, not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5:7).
Furthermore, the Lord has cut you free from frivolous and irresponsible living for a life of faith. No longer do you have to roam around like an unsure beast, stuck in a purposeless predicament. You have the resources of heaven to help you understand the way. You are cut free from cynicism to hope, from insecurity to security, from greed to generosity, from resentment to forgiveness, and from worry to peace.
Christ has cut you free from circumstantial faith (based on the economy or anything uncertain), to a trust rooted in unchanging truth; Jesus Himself. So do not allow the cords of your circumstances to choke out your belief in God. By faith invite the sharp scissors of your Savior to slice through your situation, and set you free to live and love the Lord, others and yourself.
Jesus says, “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed” (John 8:36).
Does a secret (or not so secret) sin hold you back from enjoying all that Jesus has to give you? If so, seek out His forgiveness and healing. Submerge yourself in the security and accountability of other Christ followers. You can be unencumbered by earthly weights that hold you down like a helium balloon that’s unable to lift off from its ties to the ground. Therefore, go to God and receive His grace that allows you to fly by faith!
“But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves of God, the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life” (Romans 6:22).
From what attitude or actions do I need Christ to cut me free?
Related Readings: Acts 13:39; Romans 6:7-20; Hebrews 9:15; Revelation 1:5
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